Hillsides benefit set for Feb. 25

The much-anticipated annual benefit, “Road to Emerald City,” will be held on Saturday, February 25, 2012, beginning at 6:00 p.m. Chaired by Pasadena resident Cathy Brennan, also a Hillsides Guild member, the annual benefit is expected to raise monies for Hillsides’ programs and services for vulnerable children, youth and families.

The theme “Road to Emerald City” was chosen because in the Wizard of Oz, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion represent three universal fears: fear of neglect, fear of unworthiness and fear that the world is unsafe.

“Together with Dorothy, they follow the yellow brick road in search of getting back home while traversing roadblocks. It reminds me of the vulnerable children and families at Hillsides, many of whom face the same fears and who need courage, heart, caring and to be told they are worthy individuals with great brains,” said Brennan. “I feel the road finally leads them to Hillsides, our own equivalent of the Emerald City, where although their individual and family journeys may be difficult, it is with support from Hillsides staff that they are able to find safety and hope.”

Held at the California Club, a private club in downtown Los Angeles, the event is action-packed with many unique and exceptional auction items to delight all guests. While perusing the auction displays and placing bids, guests will sip on the evening’s signature drink and enjoy several hors d’oeuvres.

“With the right tools, guidance and care, children and family members alike will each experience courage, heart and wisdom. Families, with support from Hillsides staff, follow their own path to create a safe home for them and their children,” said Joseph Costa, Hillsides chief executive officer.

For the 20th consecutive year, Fritz Coleman, weathercaster for KNBC-4 and honorary chairman of the benefit, will serve as master of ceremonies and celebrity auctioneer.

Other event highlights scheduled include live auction, silent auction opportunity drawings, and, for the first time, an emerald draw, complemented by entertainment throughout the evening.

“We are so appreciative to our donors who consistently support the work we do to help restore hope to these children and families,” said Costa, “The demand for services is great so I am encouraged by everyone’s support of our event and their desire to help bring care and restoration into the lives of those we serve.”

Major sponsors for the benefit, to date, include: Susan and Bill Noce, Bolton & Company Insurance Brokers, Marge and Sherm Telleen, Don and Sally Clark, Anonymous, Linda and Stephen Gill, John Gong, Judy and Ben Reiling, Paul Rusnak-Rusnak Auto Group, The Walt Disney Company, Western Asset Management, David and Anita Sniezko, John and Suzanne Adams, Bank of the West, State Street, Jacob Maarse Florists, Elsa and Joe Behney, Henri and Donna Ford, Patty M. McAllister, Dr. Drew and Susan Pinsky, Debbe and Spike Booth, Peter and Rosemary Casey, Joseph M. Costa, David and Holly Davis, Astrid and Michael Fishbein, Tom and Louise Fox, Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Gleason, Mary Dee Hacker and Steven Nishibayashi, Harrington Group, Annica and James Newton Howard, Ruth Kokka, Mark Martinez and Dee Fisher, Brent and Leah Mason, Judy and Steve McDonald, Connie and Dan Miller, Ann and O'Malley Miller, Tom and Nicola Miller, Elizabeth M. Short, M.D. and Michael A. Friedman, M.D., Lyn Spector, Lorraine Triolo and Jeff Burke, Mel and Cindy Trousdale, Dr. and Mrs. William Watkins, Mr. and Mrs. Guilford Babcock, Caliber Construction, Inc., Helen S. Elson, John and Margaret Williams, Sandra Curtis, Edward W. Engs, Giroux and Associates, Joyce Larson, Sally and Tom Reeder, and Cathy Siegel Weiss and Ken Weiss.

To learn more about this event and auction items, visit www.Hillsides.org. Individuals wishing to reserve a ticket at $250 can call 323-255-9005 or visit www.Hillsides.org. Sponsorships are also available.